When you picture a multitool in your mind, what does it look like? Chances are it’s something along the lines of the traditional “butterfly” or Swiss knife design. Since multi-tools in general are usually designed to pack in as many functions as possible, they tend to get too bulky, heavy, and complex for a lot of EDCs. Luckily, there’s been plenty of innovation in multi-tool designs recently. More and more modern tools break tradition and put their unique spin on specialized functionality, changing the way you can use or carry a multi-tool. In this guide, we’re highlighting our favorite multi-tools with unique designs.
SOG Baton Q1
Part of SOG’s new minimalist Baton series, the Q1 is perfect for administrative tasks. It’s a pen that opens up into a pair of very handy spring-loaded scissors. The top of the tool also has a bottle opener and flathead screwdriver that you can swing out with a nail nick. It takes standard D2 ink cartridges and it writes well when you need it.
Leatherman Tread
Yes, it’s a bracelet. But if you look a little closer, you’ll see that each individual link in the bracelet is a different kind of tool. You can also customize the links to include tools you’ll actually use, from screwdrivers to wrenches of all sizes and shapes. When you need to use it, unclasp the bracelet and slip it off your wrist to get to work.
Klecker Stowaways
The Klecker Stowaway system is a set of modular tools that fit into a phone case, on a keychain, or in a key organizer. This lets you choose the tools you need, and there’s lots to choose from. You can opt for carrying different kinds of wrenches, openers, screwdrivers, and cutters. You can even pick up their pen tool, a comb, or even have one cut into your house key. With it you can also swap out the tools you need based on what you’re out to do that day, and leave the rest at home.
Swiss+Tech Utility Key
You carry your keys with you every day. Carrying a multitool shaped like one with them will help ensure you always have one handy when you need it. The Swiss+Tech Utility Key is a classic tool equipped with a Philips and flathead screwdriver. It also features a serrated edge for opening boxes, and a bottle opener to open the beverage of your choice.
Leatherman Raptor
If you’re looking to outfit your first aid kit with a pair of heavy duty medical shears without the bulk, the Raptor is for you. It has a unique folding design for compact carry, and it also comes with a sheath for speedy use. Its sharp, 420HC steel scissors are ready to take on whatever you throw at it. Rounding out its functionality as a multi-tool are a strap cutter, ring cutter, carbide glass breaker tip, oxygen tank wrench, and ruler.
Bigidesign Titanium Pocket Tool
Hands down this is one of the best ways to integrate a utility knife into your everyday carry. Aside from the razor, the frame and the blade it comes with performs other functions. It features screw drivers, wrenches, a pry tool, and a bottle opener. And it fits all this in a compact and attractive solid 6AL4V titanium package.
Victorinox Swisscard Lite
13 tools, including an LED flashlight, all slotted into a design that’s no bigger than a couple of credit cards. The Swisscard Lite is perfect for putting in your wallet or bag to make sure you have your tools when you need them.
Mininch Tool Pen
Sure, with most multitools you’ll be able to turn a common Philips or flathead screw. But they don’t compare to the plethora of screws you can tackle with the Mininch Tool Pen. It’s a minimalist and lightweight screwdriver that can take on 18 different bits. You’ll find the standard flat head and screwdriver, but it also comes with hex, torx, and square bits.
True Utility FIXR
The FIXR integrates 20 different functions into a carabiner shape. This lets you attach it to your gear, or carry your keys with it if you so choose. It comes with screwdrivers, wrenches, a file, a wire stripper, a pry bar, and more that you access by dialing in its swiveling center piece.
Dango Tactical Wallet
Like your keys, you always carry your wallet with you. If your wallet is also a multitool, you’ll always have it on hand. The Dango Tactical Wallet is an attractive minimalist design that fits 12 cards. It comes with RFID blocking to keep your personal information safe. It has a built-in bottle opener and slots in a special multitool frame that performs 12 handy, everyday functions like turning screws, cutting rope, and more.
